THIS week is a very special one in the lives of many Irish men and women. The Dublin Horse Show is the holy grail for anyone who rides, and from the time they become aware of it youngsters dream of competing on the hallowed turf in Ballsbridge. This year is no different.

Based at the world famous Royal Dublin Society showgrounds, the show is regularly ranked as the favourite in the world for many international riders, and the uniqueness of the setting adds greatly to the mystique.

It is a show for everyone, even those with only a passing interest in an equine. From dawn to dusk, the showgrounds will be a hive of activity and next Sunday night we will all trudge home to begin dreaming of the 2019 renewal.

These seven days are some of the busiest of my year, and some of the most enjoyable. You meet everyone at the show; amateurs to the most professional, city and country folk, stallholders and artists, friends, colleagues and friends to be. It is impossible to capture in a few words the colour, vibrancy and joy of the Dublin Horse Show.

If you have never been, have been putting a visit on the long finger for a while, or if you are a regular, it is time to make a date for the show which runs from Wednesday to Sunday inclusive.

Some years ago I volunteered to act as a steward and was fortunate to be located at arrivals. It is one of the best places to be. Meeting competitors, owners and breeders as they come to Dublin, with the dream of being among the ribbons very much alive, are among the best few days I could spend, not to mention working with a great team of fellow volunteers. It may be tiring work at times, but it is nothing if not rewarding.

Sponsorship

On Friday The Irish Field continues its sponsorship of the prestigious Breeders’ Championships, one of the most popular classes of the week. Two years ago it was graced by the presence of the Princess Royal in the ring, an endorsement of its high standing. Best wishes to all who have qualified for this year’s class.

Finally, and most importantly, come and visit our stand which is in its usual prominent position at the entrance to the main hall.

There you can meet our team and we look forward to engaging with you about the paper, your interests and getting your feedback.